History – In Brief

Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art form, characterized by intricate hand-painted or block-printed designs on fabric, using natural dyes. Its history dates back over 3,000 years, flourishing under royal patronage during the Mughal era. Originating in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Kalamkari art initially depicted mythological scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, often used as temple backdrops. Over time, it evolved to include floral, animal, and geometric motifs.

Early origins and evolution

Ancient Roots: Evidence suggests Kalamkari's presence in the Indus Valley Civilization, with resist-dyed cloth found at the Harappa archaeological site.

Temple Art: Initially, it thrived in Hindu temples as a means of narrating religious stories and mythological scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata on large cloth panels, scrolls, and hangings.

Mughal Patronage: Under the patronage of the Vijayanagara Empire, the Golconda Sultanate, and later the Mughals, Kalamkari flourished, particularly in the Deccan region. The term "Qualamkars" referred to the artisans, leading to the adoption of "Kalamkari" as the art form's name.

Distinct styles

Two prominent styles of Kalamkari emerged:

Srikalahasti Style: Characterized by freehand drawing and intricate detailing using a pen-like tool, often depicting mythological narratives and religious motifs.

Machilipatnam Style: Involves the use of block printing techniques to create vibrant patterns and motifs, typically featuring floral and geometric designs. The textiles produced here were versatile, used for clothing, prayer mats, bedspreads, tapestries, and hangings, and were influenced by Persian and European motifs due to Machilipatnam being a busy port.

Adaptation of Machilipatnam Kalamkari Block Print Into Our Community

Ours is a weavers community named DEVANGA. A typical devanga family has atleast one handloom unit in it. Due to financial crisis in the family, my grandfather Late Shri. P. Nageswara rao moved from handloom to kalamkari handicraft profession and learned kalamkari blockprinting at Balyalgudem Society in Machilipatnam. He practiced this craft with the help of Late Shri. Vinnakota Venkata Swami Naidu and Late Shri. Rekapalli Pardhasaradhi, who are his gurus of Kalamkari.

In turn with the helping hand of my father Late. Shri. P. Mukkanteswarudu who is called as Eswarudu in this field, exposed this craft to the craft lovers worldwide with help of expo’s, exhibitions, melas.

Lepakshi Handicrafts

Lepakshi Handicrafts

Lepakshi Handicrafts

Lepakshi Handicrafts

Lepakshi Handicrafts